Peptides

Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the same building blocks that form proteins such as collagen, elastin and keratin, which give skin its structure. Cosmetic signaling peptides are fragments designed to mimic parts of these proteins closely enough for cells to interpret them as signals related to repair or production. This differs from many actives that work through broader chemical or antioxidant mechanisms. Common examples include Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Copper Tripeptide-1 and various oligopeptides.

Different peptide sequences target different receptors and trigger specific responses. Some signal fibroblasts to produce more collagen, some, such as copper peptides, support wound healing and antioxidant-enzyme activity, while others interfere with neuromuscular signaling associated with expression lines. Specificity is the key feature of peptides. The category includes many different designed signals, which is why modern formulas often combine several types for complementary effects.

For skin with early loss of tone or uneven texture that needs a long-term formula with clearly identified peptides.

Peptides are a broad category, not a single ingredient. The specific sequence determines the actual function. A product that lists only peptides provides less information than a formula that names Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Copper Tripeptide-1 or another specific sequence.